Typical masonry submittals for building projects include product data sheets, physical samples, test reports, shop drawings, and quality assurance documents for all masonry units, mortar, reinforcement, anchors, flashing, insulation, and accessories used in construction. These submittals verify that materials meet specifications and industry standards before installation begins.
I know submittals aren't the most exciting part of your job. They're time-consuming, sometimes feel repetitive, and you're probably thinking "can't we just build this thing already?" But here's the deal: a thorough submittal package catches problems on paper instead of in the field. And that's way cheaper (and less stressful) than dealing with rejected materials or rework.
Why Masonry Submittals Actually Matter
Masonry submittals provide documented proof that your selected products and installation plans comply with the specifications and applicable codes. They're basically your quality control checkpoint before materials hit the jobsite.
The design team uses submittals to verify everything from compressive strength to color consistency. For structural masonry projects following the MSJC code, certain submittals aren't optional... they're mandatory. For aesthetic-focused work, you might spend more time on samples and color approvals than test reports. It all depends on what matters most for your specific project.
Masonry Units: Product Data and Samples
Brick and CMU Product Data
Masonry unit submittals include technical data sheets confirming compliance with ASTM standards like C216 for facing brick or C90 for load-bearing concrete masonry units. These data sheets list compressive strength, absorption rates, dimensional tolerances, and any special features.
If you're using specialty units (say, glazed CMU like Trenwyth Astra-Glaze SW+), the product data describes the pre-faced architectural block with its thermoset glazing molded to the face. The specs verify durability characteristics like stain resistance and fire rating.
Physical Samples
Physical samples let the architect and owner see exactly what they're getting. This isn't just about confirming a color on a screen... it's about holding the actual brick, seeing the texture variation, understanding how light plays across the surface.
On a recent project, we submitted two brick types: Manganese Ironspot Smooth for the east tower and Medium Ironspot 46 Smooth for the west. The samples showed the natural color range, which helped set realistic expectations. No one wants to hear "I didn't know there'd be this much variation" after installing 10,000 brick.
For glazed CMU, samples also let you evaluate the gloss level and make sure everyone agrees on what "high-gloss white" actually means.
Test Reports and Certificates
Test reports prove your masonry units meet the specified performance criteria. Face brick manufacturers typically provide compressive strength data, water absorption rates, and saturation coefficients to demonstrate ASTM C216 compliance.
For CMU, you'll need mill certificates or test reports confirming the compressive strength exceeds your design value of f'm. The structural engineer needs confidence that your blocks will perform under load. No test report means no approval... period.
Specialty Unit Documentation
Specialty masonry units come with extra requirements. Glazed block needs installation guides because the handling and cleaning procedures differ from standard CMU. Use the wrong mortar or an abrasive cleaner, and you'll damage that expensive glazed finish.
The installation manual becomes part of your submittal package so everyone (contractor, inspectors, subcontractors) knows the proper procedures. It's your insurance policy against "but I didn't know" excuses later.
Mortar and Grout Submittals
Mix Designs and Product Data
Mortar submittals include mix designs showing the ratio of cement, lime, and sand for site-mixed mortar, or product data sheets for prepackaged mortars like SpecMix or QUIKRETE. These documents demonstrate compliance with ASTM C270 for your specified mortar type.
Most projects today use pre-blended mortars because consistency matters. The submittal confirms your Type S or Type M mortar will achieve the required compressive strength and other performance characteristics.
If you're doing reinforced masonry with grout-filled CMU cores, include the grout mix design or product data showing ASTM C476 compliance. The MSJC spec explicitly expects mortar and grout mix designs and test results in your submittal package.
Confirming the Right Mortar Type
Mortar type submittals verify you're using the correct strength for each application. Type M mortar (2500 psi) works for below-grade masonry or heavy loads. Type S (1800 psi) handles most structural walls and veneers. Type N (750 psi) suits interior or non-loadbearing applications.
The architect needs to see that you're not using Type N where Type S is required. It's a simple check, but an important one for structural performance and durability.
Mortar Color Samples
Mortar color dramatically impacts the final appearance of your masonry. A light gray mortar makes brick look completely different than a dark charcoal joint.
Submit mortar color samples as cured chips or color cards, then build a sample panel for final approval. On our last project, we submitted exterior brick mortar samples separately from interior glazed block mortar samples because the color schemes differed. We actually went through two rounds of exterior mortar samples (Selection 02) before landing on the approved color.
Get this approved before you start laying brick. Redoing mortar joints because someone doesn't like the color is expensive and slow.
Grout Testing Documentation
For structural reinforced masonry, especially on structural jobs, the grout (the concrete-like fill in CMU cores) might require pre-construction testing or at least submittal of expected strength. Sometimes contractors provide trial batch break results or certifications for packaged grouts.
If your project has f'm verification requirements, include grout compressive strength test reports or prism test results demonstrating the masonry assembly reaches design strength. This is especially critical for high-seismic or high-wind projects where performance really matters.
Reinforcement and Anchor Submittals
Reinforcing Steel Documentation
Reinforcing steel submittals include shop drawings showing rebar size, spacing, and placement details, plus product data confirming the steel grade and any corrosion protection. You'll need mill certificates indicating Grade 60 ASTM A615 and whether the bars are galvanized or epoxy-coated.
The shop drawings show how rebar is positioned in CMU cores and bond beams. The masonry code requires specific cover and splice lengths, so these details get reviewed carefully. Make sure your bar schedules match the structural drawings before you submit.
Joint Reinforcement (Ladder and Truss Mesh)
Joint reinforcement submittals include product data for the specific ladder mesh or truss mesh you're proposing, including wire gauge (typically 9 gauge), spacing of cross-rods, and material (galvanized or stainless steel).
Products like Heckmann 1200 Truss Mesh or Wire-Bond Series 900 Eye-Wire Truss have specific configurations. The "truss" designation means diagonal cross wires, while "ladder" means parallel cross wires. For brick veneer on CMU backup, ladder-type reinforcement often includes tabs or eyelets for tying the veneer.
Code requires joint reinforcement spacing no more than 16 inches on center vertically with proper corrosion protection. Your submittal confirms compliance and shows which accessories (like pintle ties) are included.
Masonry Ties and Anchors
Masonry tie submittals cover all the anchor devices connecting masonry to other structures. This gets complicated quickly because there are dozens of anchor types.
Veneer anchors include corrugated metal ties for wood-frame or two-piece anchor systems for concrete backup. On our recent project, we submitted a complete Veneer Anchor Package covering all the components, plus specific items like the Heckmann 103-C Dovetail Triangle Tie.
The dovetail system uses a metal channel cast into concrete with triangle ties that slide into the slot and embed in the brick mortar joint. The submittal shows spacing and load capacity, confirming compliance with code requirements (typically one tie per 2.67 square feet for 9-gauge ties in veneers). We even included a document called "Dovetail Slot Spacing Guidance for Exterior Concrete Behind Face Brick" to coordinate the layout with the concrete contractor.
Partition top anchors like the Heckmann PTA 419 stabilize interior masonry walls while allowing the structure above to deflect. These devices attach to the slab or beam with a slot or pin that restrains horizontal movement without vertical restraint. The submittal confirms the anchor can accommodate the required gap and loads.
Concrete and masonry anchors include chemical adhesive systems like Hilti HIT-HY 200 for anchoring threaded rods or rebar into concrete or grout-filled block. The submittal includes technical data and ICC-ES evaluation reports proving load capacities. If you're attaching a brick shelf angle with epoxy-set anchors, the engineer reviews the HIT-HY 200 data to confirm adequate bond strength.
Mechanical anchors like Hilti Metal Hit Anchors also need submittals showing load ratings and installation requirements. This verifies everything connecting to masonry is structurally adequate and code-approved.
Corrosion Protection Requirements
All metal components in exterior walls need corrosion protection (galvanized or stainless steel). Your submittals must note the finish. Industry standards require this for joint reinforcement, ties, and anchors exposed to weather.
The review process catches mistakes like someone proposing plain steel wall ties in an exterior cavity wall. They should be galvanized or stainless as specified. Don't skip this detail.
Shop Drawings for Complex Work
Complex masonry assemblies need shop drawings showing how everything fits together: rebar placement, anchor spacing, control joint locations, and coordination with other trades.
Our Veneer Anchor Package and dovetail spacing guide functioned as shop drawings. Some projects also require reinforcing steel shop drawings with schedules of rebar lengths, bends, and positions. These get reviewed against structural design requirements to ensure proper execution.
Moisture Control and Insulation Submittals
Through-Wall Flashing and Weep Holes
Through-wall flashing submittals include product data for the flashing material (self-adhered membrane, metal flashing, or other systems) plus shop drawings showing installation at critical locations. Flashing goes at wall bases, above openings, and at transitions to intercept water entering the cavity and direct it to weep holes.
Weep holes are the drainage outlets. Rectangle weep holes (plastic rectangular vents usually made of polyethylene) get installed every 24 to 32 inches at the bottom of the cavity above the flashing. They allow water to drain while keeping out insects and debris.
The submittal confirms dimensions, materials, and placement spacing so water exits the wall properly instead of accumulating inside.
Cavity Drainage Materials
Modern masonry walls often include drainage material preventing mortar droppings from blocking water flow. Products like the Heckmann Mortar Deflector (a 10-inch tall polymer mesh) sit on the flashing to catch falling mortar during construction.
This mesh creates open drainage channels so water reaches the weep holes unimpeded. When properly installed, mortar deflectors prevent weep hole clogging. The submittal ensures your specific product meets project needs (some jobs use mortar net or pea gravel instead).
Insulation Products
Insulation submittals include product data verifying R-value, thickness, fire resistance, and water repellency for cavity wall insulation like Thermafiber Mineral Wool or Rockwool Cavityrock Insulation.
These semi-rigid mineral wool boards fit within cavity walls and offer non-combustible fire resistance (beneficial for fire-rated walls). The data sheet confirms compatibility with masonry and air barriers.
If your project has specific requirements like NFPA 285 compliance for insulated cavity walls in Type I construction, the submittal gets reviewed for those criteria. The goal is confirming correct insulation type, thickness, and placement to achieve energy code values without affecting moisture management.
Air and Water Barrier Membranes
Air barrier submittals cover the self-adhered sheet membranes or fluid-applied membranes on backup structures behind masonry. Products like Henry Air-Bloc 17MR (a spray or roll-applied vapor-permeable air and water barrier) need product data sheets and installation guidelines.
Shop drawings show how the membrane integrates with other elements like windows, doors, and wall tops. Air-Bloc 17MR cures to a rubberized, monolithic layer resisting air leakage and water penetration.
The architect reviews these submittals to verify the air barrier meets permeability requirements, NFPA 285 fire testing, and compatibility with masonry. Shop drawings detail continuity with flashings, showing how window flashing, roof membranes, and other components connect. This continuity is critical for a functioning building envelope.
Special conditions need attention too. Our "Air Barrier for Trash Loading Room" submittal addressed a specific space needing heavier-duty or odor-control requirements. Don't overlook these details.
Sealants and Joint Fillers
Joint filler submittals like Neoprene Sponge (closed-cell neoprene foam) confirm the specified size and material for control and expansion joints. Neoprene sponge prevents mortar from clogging expansion joints and provides a compressible medium to absorb movement.
These small materials are vital for joint function. If mortar fills the joints, they can't compress as designed. The submittal ensures clean vertical expansion joints that can be properly caulked later.
Any exterior sealants for masonry (control joints or around penetrations) also need submittals showing color and masonry compatibility.
Other Important Submittals
Cleaning Materials
Masonry cleaning submittals include product data for cleaners like Sure Klean Vana Trol (a Prosoco acidic cleaner) used to remove mortar smears or efflorescence. Vana Trol works particularly well for bricks prone to vanadium or manganese staining.
The submittal shows you're using an approved cleaning method safe for your specified brick or block. Some glazed units or limestone require very specific cleaners. You might need to do a test clean panel for approval.
Cleaning is often overlooked, but including it in submittals ensures achieving the final appearance without causing damage.
Access Panels and Specialty Components
Built-in items like access panels need submittals even though they're more typical Division 08 products. The NYSTROM Airtight Access Door on our project was a factory-fabricated panel for a chase within the block wall.
The submittal included product data and dimensions confirming the door met fire rating or air-seal requirements (the "airtight" designation suggested a pressurized space or odor control for a trash room). This ensures proper fit and performance while coordinating all trades.
LEED and Sustainability Documentation
LEED submittals detail sustainability data like recycled content in CMU blocks or bricks, regional manufacturing location for locally sourced material credits, and low-VOC content of additives or coatings.
For example, CMU might contain fly ash or recycled aggregate. Face brick might be manufactured within 500 miles for regional credits. Mortar might use cement with recycled components.
These standardized forms or spreadsheets list all relevant green attributes. While they don't directly affect construction quality, they're required for project certification. Having them demonstrates you've vetted each material for environmental compliance.
Quality Assurance Procedures
Quality assurance submittals include cold-weather or hot-weather construction plans detailing procedures for protecting masonry when temperatures fall outside normal ranges. If your schedule hits winter, the plan details how you'll heat materials and protect curing mortar from freezing.
Special inspection reports and testing plans might also be submitted. Pre-construction prism tests confirming f'm would have results submitted for record. Field test reports for mortar and grout come later during construction as ongoing QA documentation.
Shop Drawings for Complex Features
Complex masonry features like arches, stone trim, or special reinforcing details need shop drawings illustrating construction and reinforcement methods. Pattern layouts for glazed block feature walls might require diagrams if they're not simply uniform.
These drawings ensure aesthetic and structural design gets properly executed. The review confirms conformance with design and detailing requirements.
Best Practices for Masonry Submittals
Here's what works based on real projects:
Organize by category. Group all brick and CMU data together, all mortar info together, all reinforcement together. This mirrors how specs are written and makes review easier. Using standardized submittal templates helps maintain consistency across projects.
Include complete technical data. Don't assume common materials don't need documentation. Even standard rebar or ties should have cutsheets or ASTM standard references. Include compliance certificates, mix designs, ICC reports for anchors, and safety data sheets for chemicals.
Take aesthetic submittals seriously. Masonry is often a finish material, so getting color and appearance right is crucial. Submit multiple brick samples or mortar color options. Build a sample panel on site. It's easier to adjust in the submittal phase than after building a wall.
Coordinate with other trades. Masonry interfaces with windows, structural frames, insulation, and doors. Good submittals reference these connections. Shop drawings might show lintel schedules or pipe penetrations. Include air barriers and access doors under masonry to prevent gaps in coordination.
Use manufacturer resources. Many manufacturers provide ready-made submittal packets. Using these saves time and ensures you don't miss key data. Manufacturers often have online libraries of specs, test reports, and CAD details.
Check code and spec requirements. Your project specification Section 04 20 00 (Unit Masonry) lists exactly what must be submitted. If it calls for a specific certificate or test (like ASTM C67 brick absorption), include it. Refer to codes like TMS 402/602 for mandated submittals like special inspection programs. Knowing what to review during the submittal process helps catch issues early.
Frequently Asked Questions About Masonry Submittals
What are the most important masonry submittals for a typical commercial project?
The most important masonry submittals for a typical commercial project include product data and samples for all masonry units (brick and CMU), mortar mix designs with color samples, reinforcing steel shop drawings, joint reinforcement specifications, wall ties and anchor data, through-wall flashing details with weep hole specifications, and air/water barrier membrane documentation. These core submittals verify both structural performance and aesthetic requirements before installation begins.
How long does the masonry submittal review process typically take?
The masonry submittal review process typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from submission to approval, though this varies by project complexity and reviewer availability. Simple product data submittals might get approved in a week, while complex shop drawings coordinating multiple systems can take longer. Plan ahead and submit early in your schedule, especially for long-lead items like custom-colored brick or specialty glazed CMU that might need samples fabricated before review.
Do I need to submit samples for every brick on the project?
You need to submit samples for every different brick type specified on the project, but not every individual brick. If your project uses two brick colors or textures (like our example with Manganese Ironspot Smooth and Medium Ironspot 46 Smooth), submit representative samples of each type showing the acceptable range of color variation. The architect typically wants to see 3 to 5 sample units per type to understand the natural variation in the product.
What's the difference between shop drawings and product data in masonry submittals?
Product data in masonry submittals consists of manufacturer's technical literature, spec sheets, and test reports showing a product's properties and compliance with standards (like a brick manufacturer's ASTM C216 certification). Shop drawings are contractor-prepared or manufacturer-prepared drawings showing how specific products will be installed, detailed, or coordinated on your project (like a rebar placement plan or anchor spacing layout). Most masonry submittal packages include both types of documentation for different components.
Can I start installing masonry before all submittals are approved?
You should not start installing masonry before the relevant submittals are approved, as this violates most construction contracts and risks costly rework if materials are rejected. Some general conditions allow ordering long-lead materials at your own risk before approval, but installation should wait. The submittal review catches incompatible materials, wrong specifications, and coordination issues before they become field problems. Starting early might save a few days on the schedule but can cost weeks if you need to remove and replace rejected work.
What happens if my masonry submittal gets rejected?
If your masonry submittal gets rejected, the reviewer will typically provide comments explaining what's deficient or non-compliant with the specifications. Common rejection reasons include wrong ASTM standards, insufficient test data, incorrect mortar types, missing corrosion protection on metal components, or colors that don't match approved samples. You'll need to revise the submittal addressing all comments and resubmit for another review cycle. This is why getting submittals right the first time matters... each rejection adds 1 to 2 weeks to your schedule.
Do mortar color samples need to be approved before the brick samples?
Mortar color samples and brick samples should ideally be reviewed together since the mortar color dramatically affects the final appearance of the masonry. Many architects prefer seeing the actual brick and proposed mortar color as a small sample panel (called a "mock-up" or "sample panel") showing the combination before giving final approval. This prevents surprises where an approved brick looks completely different with an unexpected mortar color. Submit both early and plan to build an on-site sample panel for final sign-off.
The Bottom Line
A comprehensive masonry submittal package catches problems before they reach the field. Wrong materials, incompatible components, unclear details... they're all easier (and cheaper) to fix on paper.
This upfront investment of time pays off in quality assurance and avoids costly issues later. Every component from bricks to flashings to cleaning agents should be reviewed and approved before work proceeds. That's how you build masonry that performs as designed and looks as intended.
And honestly? When your submittals are thorough and well-organized, you build credibility with the design team. They know you're thinking ahead and taking quality seriously. That trust matters on every project that follows.
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